At a glance

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At a glance

Soak up the Cuban culture on this active and rewarding cycling tour

Soak up the Cuban culture on this active and rewarding cycling tour

Cuba’s music, beaches, old cars, striking architecture and revolutionary history combine to make the perfect cultural destination with a lively atmosphere. Our relaxed cycle route passes through stunning countryside with a patchwork of plantations, fields and jungle, allowing us to appreciate the traditional way of life that continues today. Out of the saddle we can experience Trinidad’s vibrant music scene, the crumbling colonial buildings of Havana and learn about the revolutionary history of Santiago. After a day of cycling you'll no doubt welcome Cuba's speciality - a refreshing mojito!

Cycling profile

Daily distance in km/miles:

Day 2

25.0km/15.5miles

Day 3

65.0km/40.4miles

Day 4

67.0km/41.6miles

Day 5

85.0km/52.8miles

Day 7

72.0km/44.7miles

Day 8

70.0km/43.5miles

Day 9

75.0km/46.6miles

Day 10

70.0km/43.5miles

Day 12

65.0km/40.4miles

Day 13

55.0km/34.2miles

Number of days cycling: 10

Pace: Moderate: 13-16km/8-10miles an hour

Terrain: Low altitude; 90% tarmac, 10% unpaved track

Itinerary

Show detailed itinerary

1Day 1Start Havana.

The group flight arrives in the afternoon and we transfer to our hotel. Land only clients will meet the group at the start hotel in Havana.See more images and videos

2Day 2Tour of Havana; to Matanzas.

In the morning we will have our trip briefing, followed by bike fitting before we set off on a warm up ride round Havana. Traffic is remarkably light for a capital city. We cycle through the Miramar and Vedado districts of Havana to reach the dominating Plaza de la Revolucion, whilst Buicks and Pontiacs cruise past with gleaming chrome. We continue towards Old Havana and stop at El Capitolio, the famous National Capitol Building, which is superficially similar to the White House in Washington D.C. We finish our sightseeing with a walking tour in the heart of Old Havana and a stop for lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon we transfer to Matanzas for dinner and stay overnight. See more images and videos

3Day 3Ride/transfer to Playa Larga at Bay of Pigs.

We leave the hotel by bike and ride through Matanzas province, the landscape is full of sugar cane and citrus plantations and the life, though hard, is quiet in the villages. This pretty ride takes us through rural communities to Pedro Betancourt where we load the bikes on the bus and drive to lunch. Once we pass the Australia Sugar Factory (where Fidel Castro set up his headquarters for the Bay of Pigs crisis) we enter the Cienaga de Zapata. The road is flat and is skirted by a swamp, once full of crocodiles. We pass Guama Crocodile farm and stop for a visit. After lunch we continue on to the Bay of Pigs where we stay overnight. This was the site of the failed invasion by CIA-backed Cuban Americans. Many of the beaches here are ideal for snorkelling and swimming.See more images and videos

4Day 4Countryside cycling; to Cienfuegos.

Continuing south to cross the island, our route today covers a variety of landscapes. We ride through the biggest swamps in Cuba (Zapata Peninsula), and then cut through agricultural routes to reach the main road towards Cienfuegos. This is a day for discovering the rural heart of Cuba as we pass through small communities dedicated to agriculture and charcoal production. A stop at Playa Giron gives us the chance to learn about CIA backed invasion of Cuba in the early 60's. From here we have a short ride to lunch in Caleta Buena, a natural sea pool teeming with tropical fish. This ride includes a section of off-road cycling on a track through the forest. There should be the opportunity to have a dip upon arrival. Afterwards we continue by bus to Cienfuegos.

Today's ride takes us further along the coastline to Trinidad. Trinidad is beautiful; a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 and perhaps the best-preserved colonial town on the island. Exploring Trinidad can feel like entering a time warp, its colourful, cobbled streets and horse drawn transportation whisking us back to Colonial Times. There are many interesting museums housed in old colonial buildings and music drifts through the streets and plazas. See more images and videos

6Day 6Free day.

Today is free to soak up the atmosphere of Trinidad or join an optional excursion to explore the surrounding areas. We offer the option to join a Catamaran trip, embarking from the beach of Playa Ancon and sailing the Caribbean to the small island of Cayo Macho (or Cayo Blanco depending on availability) to lunch on fresh seafood amongst tame iguanas and tree rats. Alternatively you can walk the 'El Cubano' trail in the nearby national park. This evening we recommend a visit to Trinidad's Casa de la Trova (the 'House of Music') for traditional Cuban music and dancing.

We ride inland towards the city of Sancti Spiritus. The road rises and falls through the beautiful scenery of the Alturas de Banao, where coffee plantations and farms adorn the landscape, passing the Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills) which was once Cuba's most important sugar producing area. At the village of Manaca Iznaga we can stop to visit the farmhouse and the famous 'run away slaves' tower; for a small entrance fee you can climb the 136 steps and enjoy the view. Upon arrival in Sancti Spiritus, we enjoy some free time in the town's colonial centre and then transfer to Camaguey. See more images and videos

8Day 8Transfer/ride to Bayamo.

Our day starts with a transfer to Las Tunas, where we saddle up to ride across this lively city. We continue to Bayamo, located in the province of Granma, one of the island's most important regions from a revolutionary perspective and consisting mainly of the floodplain of the river Cauto (Cuba's longest). The area contains many sugar cane and rice plantations, and lies below the Sierra Maestra Mountains. The charming city of Bayamo is the capital of the province, and has a pleasant, relaxed ambience full of poignant monuments and revolutionary atmosphere. See more images and videos

9Day 9Ride into the Sierra Maestra Mountains.

A challenging ride from Bayamo into the Sierra Maestra. As we head deep into the mountains, today's route is dominated by Pico Bayamesa (at 1,730m above sea level it is Cuba's third tallest peak). This is an area of stunning natural beauty and is rarely visited by tourists. After passing through numerous villages we reach our hotel where we can relax after probably our hardest day's ride.

This morning we take a short break from the saddle to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Sierra Maestra. Starting early, we take a gentle stroll into the mountains with a local, passing through tropical forest and coffee plantations before stopping for coffee and fruit in a local farmer's home and returning to the hotel for lunch. We take a transfer from Salton to just beyond Palma Soriano, then it's back on the bikes to ride to El Cobre. After visiting Cuba's most important Holy Shrine, we transfer to Santiago de Cuba. The city is rich in traditions, folklore and legends, making almost every street corner famous. But it is at night that Santiago really comes alive with legendary Cuban music and dancing.See more images and videos

11Day 11City tour; transfer to Gibara.

Santiago de Cuba is known as the city of heroes, for the important role it played in Independence and Revolutionary struggles. The morning is spent sightseeing, including the Moncada Barracks - where the opening shots of the Revolution were fired on 26 July 1953 when Castro and his men attacked the barracks. There is a rich tradition of dance, music and festivals, largely based on the Afro-Cuban population. Afternoon transfer to Gibara. See more images and videos

12Day 12Coastal cycle ride; to Camaguey.

Today we cycle directly from our hotel this morning and head for Aguas Claras, where we turn right and head North towards Puerto Padre, riding along quieter roads we make our way to the small town of Maniabon via the north coast. We finish in a tiny rural community called Chaparra where we stop for a picnic lunch. From here we transfer to Camaguey, the capital of the province. See more images and videos

13Day 13Transfer to Majagua; ride to Mayajigua.

We transfer after breakfast to the town of Majagua and enjoy a final cycle ride to the rural setting of Mayajigua, our base for tonight. The route today will be challenging as we make our way over the northern range of hills, but the support vehicle is on hand just in case! See more images and videos

14Day 14To Havana via historic Remedios and Santa Clara.

Today is a long day so we leave Mayajigua early in the morning and return by road to Havana via Remedios, one of the earliest Spanish settlements in Cuba, and then Santa Clara to visit the Che Mausoleum and armoured train exhibition. The evening is free to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of charming Havana. See more images and videos

15Day 15Sightseeing in Havana; afternoon End.

Today there is a city tour of old Havana, described as a living museum, with its marvellous monuments, cathedrals and palaces. We will lunch at the famous Hemingway haunt La Bodeguita del Medio, and have the chance to try his favourite Mojito cocktail (made with rum, lime, mint and sugar). After lunch we transfer to the airport for those on the group flight to London. Passengers travelling independently will leave the group in Havana.

Your images

Adult Group

This is a small group adult holiday. The group is usually between 4 and 16 in size, with an average of 12 like-minded clients booking individually, in a couple or as friends together.

Activity level

You are moderately fit and possess a spirit of adventure. Some previous experience is required for most activity based trips.

What's included

What's included

All breakfasts, 12 lunches, 4 dinners

All accommodation

London flights (if booking incl. flights)

Airport transfers

What's not included

Local bike hire (GBP100 paid on booking)

Travel insurance

Single accommodation - GBP195

Accommodation details

Hotels

You will spend 12 nights in hotels and 2 nights in Casas Particulares, these are simpler local rural hotels. Rooms are on a twin-share basis, with air conditioning and some have swimming pools. Please note that this kind of tourism is in its infancy in Cuba power cuts occur, and hot water supplies are not always guaranteed.

Essential info

Vaccinations and Visa
British and most Western European passport holders do not require a visa but do require a tourist card. Your Cuban tourist card (valid for 30 days) is included and will be posted to you by Exodus approx. 6 weeks before travel. We will send instructions on how to fill it in but please be careful doing this as any mistakes may result in you having to purchase a new card at a cost of GBP15.00 per person.
We will send a tourist card free of charge as long as you live at a UK or Ireland address and are national of an EU country, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Japan. If you are not national of one of these countries or are not resident in the UK or Eire you must contact your nearest Cuban Consulate to check what visa is required - Exodus cannot provide a tourist card for you.
The Cuban entry immigration is time consuming and most visitors encounter delays when queuing for entry into the country.
The Cuban Government passed a law stating that all tourists visiting Cuba must have travel insurance to cover medical costs. You are likely to be asked to provide proof of your travel insurance policy when you arrive at Havana airport, so please ensure your documents are easily accessible.
Whilst we hope that things will change in the near future, due to present US policy, we cannot take US citizens on our trips to Cuba.
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Tetanus, Hepatitis A. We are advised that there is no risk of malaria. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Holiday style

This trip is classified road and graded as Moderate. Please see the introductory pages of the cycling holidays brochure for more important information on classification and grading.
Average daily distance: 65km (40 miles)
Number of days cycling: 10
Vehicle Support: 100%
Terrain and route: surface 90% tarmac, 10% dirt roads, some hills. Overall the trip is not too strenuous but a good level of fitness is required. Routes follow mainly quiet back roads and can be potholed.
This tour covers some remote parts of the island. Though many of the roads are in good condition you should expect potholes and poor road conditions on some sections. The roads are generally free of heavy traffic, except in some of the bigger towns/cities visited.
Mountain bikes are ideal for this trip and flat bars are preferable, but a good strong tourer will suffice (though make sure you have suitably low gearing). Terrain varies from flat around Las Tunas to hilly, and mountainous in the Sierra Maestra. In the harder areas there are some longish climbs, requiring good fitness, (particularly as Cuba is invariably hot and humid), and also some steep descents. Day 9 is particularly strenuous as we are cycling in a mountainous region.

Cuba is an increasingly popular tourist destination and unfortunately the number of hotel rooms is not increasing at the same rate. In peak season, hotels occasionally cancel bookings at the last minute and will then find alternative accommodation for the group. In extreme cases bookings may be transferred to hotels in nearby towns or to Casa Particulares (private houses that offer a Bed and Breakfast service). This overbooking is affecting all tour operators to the country and you need to be aware that it may affect your trip. In the event of such a change we will endeavour to ensure a property of the same standard is used to minimise disruption.

If you require a single room then we encourage you to book early in order to avoid disappointment. It is not possible for us to change twin-share rooms for single rooms once you have arrived in Cuba

Eating & drinking

14 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 4 dinners included allowing the option to try some local restaurants on the other evenings. We provide packed lunches during the day and 3 litres of bottled water pp on cycling days. There are also plenty of refreshment stops for water and fresh fruit.
Cuba is not renowned for its culinary excellence and some ingredients are just not possible to get hold of (due in no small part to the long trade embargo implemented by the US). As such, flavours tend to be relatively simple, with most mealtimes consisting of meat or fish accompanied by rice and salad/vegetables. Seafood is widely available on the coast, including cheap and abundant lobster! Vegetarians will probably find they have the most limited choice. Snack food is not freely available in Cuba so you may wish to consider taking some with you - particularly energy snacks for cycling days.
Paladares are likely to be a highlight of any visit to Cuba - they are one of the few types of private enterprise allowed (although still heavily regulated), where families can set up a restaurant in their own house selling authentic, Cuban food. The atmosphere this creates and opportunity to integrate with local Cubans will no doubt enhance your stay!
We recommend that you allow CUC 30 pp per day for the lunches and evening meals on the days where food is not included. You may also spend money on bottled water, which will normally cost about CUC 1.50 per bottle if bought from the coach (less if you purchase from local shops).

Trip notes

Download the detailed trip notes for everything you could possibly want to know about this trip, including
detailed itinerary and full kit list

Weather & seasonality

The dry season runs from November through to April (with December to March being the peak holiday months for traditional style tourism). It can be humid between May and October, with heavy rains at times and the possibility of hurricanes. July and August are some of the most popular months to visit Cuba by sun-seekers from Europe and Canada but can be hot (average 28degC) and wet. Cuba has an average of 6 hours sunshine per day with a more or less constant humidity of 62%. Water temperature normally ranges from 24 to 28degC.

Gallery

Reviews & community

This is my 4th Exodus trip and again it was superbly planned with plenty of cycling, culture, and fun. Its totally full on, and hotel rooms are only places to dump a bag and crash out at night. The Mojitas always beckon, and with a big group a party is always at hand.
The cycling is fairly easy and well researched. The hotels are generally good, and all have A/C and bathroom en suite.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

We had the chance to stay 2 nights with a local family in Trinidad, and although they did not speak English well and my Spanish was limited I spent a wonderful hour showing photos of my family and explaining about life in the UK. They have very few material possessions and were fascinated by the photos. 3 generations live in the one house.
The rooms we had were surprisingly good. Bring small gifts like biscuits or chocolate. You are staying in a private house

What did you think of your group leader?

Laz was brilliant and kept us amused with his stories anecdotes and general enthusiasm. He has a vast knowledge of the country and its history, and explained everything about the day beforehand. From teaching us dancing moves to problems in the hotel, he never tired and I can cannot recommend him highly enough.
Tuna and Manuel the 2 drivers were also excellent and great fun on the dance floor.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Forget internet, and WiFi, unless you really have to. Most hotels do have a terminal but it was mostly down or so slow it wasn't worth the effort. WiFi did not exist even in the Melia in Santiago. Cell phones work for messaging, but not data.
Food was better than expected but some meals can be a bit bland. Definitely bring snacks. Soy sauce for the endless rice.
The cycling was generally flat and easier than other trips like Vietnam/Kerala. Day 9 the challenging day was actually quite easy, although very hot.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cuba is a culture shock and well worth seeing before commercialism gets hold. The average Cuban has no free press, satellite dishes, internet, and cell phones. They are charming people and will always exchange a greeting with a smile.
The Havana tour at the end is fascinating.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I would say admiration for the strengths of Cuba's social ideals (there are of course great weaknesses in it too) &amp; the friendliness and apparent contentment of the Cuban people. Also you can't also fail to be inspired by the beauty of the country and the Spanish colonial architecture.

What did you think of your group leader?

Laz was fantastic. A trained teacher who loved his job as a tour leader. He was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, competent and amusing. He told us amusing personal stories and talked openly about his country. With regard to the cycling before each section he carefully described the terrain and any potential hazards. It probably explains why not one of the 18 of us got lost, fell off or had any sort of accident. He took us to some wonderful restaurants -my favourites the lobster and also the garlic shrimps.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do go there soon. MAKE IT YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY. January was a good month to go. Cycling is a great way to see a country but if cycling is not your thing go to Cuba anyway.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The cycling was not that tough. I can say that now! If you are 60+, like me, you need to have done some regular cycling beforehand but if young and an average athlete you will probably cope ok with minimal preparation.
Enjoy the Mojitos.

A unique country and a fabulous holiday! A heady mix of great scenery, friendly people, top cycling, vintage cars, music, dancing, Caribbean coastline and cocktails galore!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Almost getting the hang of Salsa, Trinidad, the mountains of Sierra Maestra, history all around, and great fellow bunch of travellers!

What did you think of your group leader?

Laz was brilliant, very organised, friendly, great sense of humour and nothing was too much trouble. He anticipated every question typically raised by new visitors to Cuba and his passion for his country was infectious! In summary, the trip ran like clockwork thanks to him and his excellent support team of Tuna and Manuel!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go before it changes now that the USA looks like it may lift the long standing (and totally unjustified) trade embargo. A trip in January is just right for enjoying perfect Cuban weather (warm but not humid) and avoiding grotty British weather!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The cycling is easily within the compass of someone moderately fit, only one hilly day. Hire bikes are fine, no need to take your own.

Questions about your trip

Pick your question

Are water bottles provided on the Cuban bikes?

We don't provide bottles but all the bikes have one bottle holder and the second one could be added on request (depending on availability). The support vehicle follows the group all the time and there are stops whenever the group needs it when you can refill.

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

I want to take my own saddle - what is the seat post diameter?

Many clients bring their own saddle but there is no need to bring it with the seat post. Please take just your saddle.

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

What sort of suspension do the bikes have?

All the bikes have front suspension only.

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

Do the bikes have clip-in pedals?

No, they don't. Please bring your own pedals and the original ones will be replaced with yours.

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

Any nightlife tips for Havana?

Havana has a great bar called El Floridita, which was a regular drinking spot for author Ernest Hemingway. I definitely recommend trying a strawberry daiquiri or two!Another excellent bar is the Casa de la Música for a salsa show in Trindad. The live music and local dancing will conjure up images of the Buena Vista Social Club, with its lively and fast-paced jazz, rumba and salsa. Be prepared to dance!

Sophie Ashworth - Marketing

Any Cuban shopping tips?

Souvenirs are available at all major cities and towns in Cuba. They range from wooden handicrafts, local paintings to the classic Cuban Cigar.Havana has a souvenir market on a Thursday afternoon, which is great for local artists showcasing their work, however Trinidad seem to have the better quality souvenirs, especially of the hand carved variety. I would recommend Cienfuegos as the place to buy your cigars!

Dan Cockburn - Product Manager

What is the food like in Cuba?

Food in Cuba consists mostly of rice, fish, meat, beans and plenty of fresh fruit. You can't go to Cuba without trying the famous Mohijo or Cuba Libre, but beware that they don't use measuring glasses so they might be stronger than the ones you have tried at home! Fresh lobster served with salad is also a lovely treat if you visit the island of Cayo Macho. There is also plenty of safe bottled water available throughout Cuba.

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

Do the bikes have any bags or panniers fitted?

No, they don't. It is possible to fit panniers if you really want to, but there is hardly any need as the support vehicle follows you all the time and you will have access to it every hour or so. Please note that if you want panniers to be fitted to your bike you would need to bring your own ones with you to Cuba, together with an appropriate bike rack (fitting a Trek 4300 bike).

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

What make are the bikes in Cuba?

We currently use Trek 4300 bikes with V-brakes.

Karol Rogacki - Americas Operations

What sort of tyres do the bikes in Cuba come with?

All the models have semi-slick tyres which we believe are the most convenient for that trip. However if you prefer to use different tyres, please bring your own and they will be fitted.

Karol Rogacki - Customer Operations

Some days look quite long. Do we need to be experienced cyclists?

No. The leader carefully breaks up the distances covered with refreshment stops and lunch. The terrain will vary but clients are always free to hop on the support vehicle that shadows the whole group, if they feel like a break. Saying that, you do cover more ground than you think, especially with a tailwind behind you!

Will Shoubridge - Agency Sales

Cuba articles

Lucy Davies, our Base Manager in Cuba, has written an article where she takes you through a brief history of Cuba, old and new!

Also, staff member Sophie Ashworth travelled to Cuba recently and you can read her article here to get a personal viewpoint of the country.

What do I do about money when I arrive in Havana?

Cuba unfortunately has very few ATM machines, making it slightly more difficult to manage your money supply while in Cuba. Cuba has dual currency system: Cuban Peso (CUP; it's unlikely you will ever need it) and Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC; the one tourists always use). It's best to take all spending money in Sterling cash (Euro or Canadian dollars will also be fine), which can be easily exchanged upon arrival in Cuba. Travellers cheques are accepted at major banks but incur a 5% commission, and some smaller outlets cannot accept them. Also, along with credit cards, they must have no association with an American bank i.e. Virgin Credit Card or American Express travellers cheques, as they will not be accepted anywhere in Cuba.

Sophie Ashworth - Marketing

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Dates & prices

This trip is not available in this country

Trip Extension: If you would like to relax on a beautiful beach at Cayo Levisa or spend more time in charming Havana then it is possible to extend your trip. For more details please refer to our Trip Notes. Alternatively you can call our Sales team who will be happy to assist you.

Responsible travel

We realise that every holiday destination is also someone else's home and that we should leave places as we found them. Find out more about how we incorporate responsible travel into our adventure and activity holidays, and how you can help by donating to one of our responsible travel projects.